On Tuesday, VMware released AirWatch Express, a cloud-based mobile device management (MDM) solution that aims to simplify device management in the enterprise. According to VMware, AirWatch Express helps configure Wi-Fi connectivity, applications, and email, as well as encryption and device security.

AirWatch Express is built on the same platform as VMware's existing VMware AirWatch product. The core difference is that it takes fewer steps to get it up and running, and it requires little to no training to get set up with.

Blake Brannon, vice president of product marketing for end-user computing at VMware, said that AirWatch Express could help organizations manage their mobile workforce "without the need for technical knowledge or additional IT staff."

VMware's core AirWatch product is more of a full enterprise mobility management (EMM) platform, helping an enterprise manage all of their mobile assets. AirWatch provides additional functionality around container management and content collaboration, for example, whereas AirWatch Express seems to be geared toward a more simple approach to MDM.

As such, AirWatch Express could be a good fit for SMBs, or other organizations with small IT departments. The growth of mobile is being felt in companies of all sizes, and MDM solutions are becoming a necessary part of a strong mobile strategy.

AirWatch Express integrates with a company's existing email system and directory services to more quickly get new users up and running. Apps can be pushed automatically, or users can be allowed to select from a self-service app catalog. Admins can set up "blueprints" for each employee use case to make individual deployments even easier in the future.

In terms of security, it offers device encryption, password setup, and the ability to block certain apps or settings for specific users. If a device is lost or stolen, it can be remotely locked or wiped from AirWatch Express. Real-time dashboards show the status of individual devices under management.

AirWatch Express is available for iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows 10. Pricing begins at $2.50 per device, and it is available now. However, interested companies can sign up for a free trial on the AirWatch Express website.